Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s ‘Love and War’ Eyes Late 2026 Release with Powerhouse Trio

Acclaimed filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali (SLB) is gearing up for one of his most ambitious projects yet with Love and War, an epic romantic war drama slated for a late 2026 theatrical release. The film has already generated massive buzz thanks to its first-ever collaboration between Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal.

Release Timeline and First Look

Initially scheduled for a March 2026 release, the film’s timeline has since shifted to allow Bhansali to fully realise his grand cinematic vision. The makers are now targeting August or September 2026, with industry chatter pointing toward August 14, 2026, strategically aligned with the Independence Day weekend.

An official first look or teaser is expected to drop in January 2026, offering audiences their first glimpse into the film’s scale, mood, and visual world.

Production Status and Budget

Filming for Love and War began in November 2024 and has been extended until May 2026, reflecting the complexity of its production. As of mid-January 2026, the team is reportedly engaged in patchwork shoots, elaborate musical sequences, and extensive VFX work.

The scale of the project has reportedly pushed the film’s budget beyond ₹300 crore, placing it among the most expensive Hindi films ever mounted by Bhansali.

Story and Cast

The film is described as a sweeping love triangle set against the backdrop of war, exploring themes of love, sacrifice, and duty. Industry rumours suggest the narrative may draw inspiration from Raj Kapoor’s 1964 classic Sangam, reimagined for a contemporary audience with two officers and a woman caught between emotion and responsibility.

In addition to the lead trio, the supporting cast is expected to include Boman Irani, Shefali Shah, Tusshar Kapoor, and Krushna Abhishek, adding further weight to the ensemble.

Renowned stunt coordinator Sham Kaushal is handling action choreography, with reports hinting at large-scale aerial combat sequences and intense war set-pieces.

Why the Film Matters

Love and War marks a significant milestone for Bhansali, bringing together three of Hindi cinema’s biggest stars in a single narrative for the first time. The film’s release window also places it close to Ranbir Kapoor’s upcoming epic Ramayana, which is expected to arrive around Diwali 2026, setting the stage for a high-profile box-office season.

With its blend of romance, war, music, and spectacle, Love and War is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated Bollywood releases of 2026.